Lee Daniels' "Precious" well received at Philadelphia Film Festival

"Usually I make a movie and I expect it to go straight to DVD, so it's weird being received this way," said Lee Daniels Sunday about the critical acclaim that has met his new film, "Precious."

The film, based on the novel "Push" by Sapphire, screened twice at the Philadelphia Film Festival 18 1/2, once to benefit BEBASHI (Blacks Educating Blacks About Sexual Health Issues). The movie, about a teen girl who is emotionally, physically and sexually abused, is as tremendous as it is harrowing.

Wynnefield native Daniels, who produced "Monster's Ball," "Shadowboxer" and "The Woodsman," says it's "a story that's universal." Actress Gabby Sidibe says that being photographed on red carpets and hearing people compliment her acting is "weird and amazing." The film is her first experience acting. Actress Xosha Roquemore also attended Sunday's screenings. Don't be surprised when Mo'Nique, who appeared in Daniels' "Shadowboxer" in a dramatic role, gets an Oscar nomination for playing the world's worst mother. The film opens Nov. 13.